Active Tour of Slovenia & Croatia

(10 Days – Departs Daily on a Private Basis)
Ljubljana with Lake Bled & the Julian Alps, Plitvice Lakes National Park, Split, Hvar & Korcula, Dubrovnik with Lokrum & Elafiti Islands

This private luxury tour of Slovenia and Croatia is perfect for travelers who like to be active. It includes the most beautiful destinations in both countries, as well as the top hotels, touring of the most interesting local historical and cultural sites, and active pursuits on land and water.

Begin in Ljubljana, the charming capital of Slovenia. During private touring, explore the Baroque and Art Nouveau architecture in the historic center; enjoy a boat ride on the Ljubljanica River, which flows through the city; visit Ljubljana Castle for panoramic views over the capital from a forested hilltop; tour the National Gallery of Slovenia; browse local markets and shops; and enjoy leisure time to relax at local cafes and restaurants. Enjoy a private excursion to the beautiful Julian Alps. At iconic Lake Bled, ride in a private pletna (flat-bottomed wooden boat) to a tiny island with a picturesque church and bell tower. Also see Bled Castle, which perches atop rocky cliffs overlooking the water. Continue to Lake Bohinj, a picture-perfect mountain lake surrounded by the rocky peaks of Triglav National Park. Perhaps opt for a scenic walk on a lakeside trail, or ride a cable car for incredible bird's-eye views over the lake and mountains.

Next, visit Plitvice Lakes National Park, a beautiful region of turquoise lakes and cascading waterfalls among forested hills that's been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stay at a hotel with access to a little-visited section of the park, and enjoy plenty of time for hiking amongst both the Upper and Lower lakes.

Continue to the ancient city of Split. Enjoy private touring of Diocletian's Palace, one of the most impressive Roman ruins in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With your private guide, walk through this living archaeological site, and see highlights such as the Peristyle, the Cathedral of Saint Domnius and the bell tower.

Next, transfer by private boat to Hvar, one of the most beautiful and sunniest islands in the Adriatic Sea. Enjoy a full day of hiking through fruit orchards, olive groves and vineyards to Malo Grablje, an atmospheric abandoned village high in the hills, and enjoy lunch at its picturesque taverna. During leisure time, explore Hvar Town, a picturesque collection of stone buildings around a natural harbor with crystal clear water, including highlights such as the Arsenal and St. Stephen's Cathedral. Perhaps also learn about local lace-making traditions or climb to a hilltop fortress for panoramic views over the town and waterfront.

Next, transfer to Dubrovnik, stopping en route on the island of Korcula. Explore the narrow streets and small squares of medieval Korcula Town, which has Greek and Venetian roots. See architectural and cultural highlights such as the Marco Polo House and Cathedral of St. Mark. Then tour the Peljesac peninsula. Enjoy private wine tastings at local wineries, and meet a local oyster farmer and sample some fresh seafood.

Continue to Dubrovnik, a beautiful historic city overlooking the Adriatic Sea. With your expert private guide, explore the highlights of the Old City of Dubrovnik, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with medieval city walls, white limestone streets, and well-preserved Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architecture. Walk atop the ramparts, visit historic palaces and monasteries, and explore the most interesting neighborhoods and backstreets. Also browse for unique crafts, olive oil and other Croatian specialties at local shops. Enjoy an afternoon of sea kayaking or hiking on Lokrum, a forest-covered island and nature reserve that includes a botanical garden, saltwater swimming hole, old fort and the atmospheric ruins of a former Benedictine monastery. Another day, enjoy a private boat excursion to the rural Elafiti (Elaphiti) Islands, stopping at small coves and beaches to swim in the Adriatic, enjoy stand up paddleboarding, or walk through the fragrant forests of pine and cypress.

This tour can be further customized to include additional time in Croatia or neighboring countries such as Italy and Montenegro.